GAMECOCK HEART AND HOME COMMITMENT: South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley Withdraws from Transfer Portal, Strengthens Roster and Leadership with Bold Return to Gamecocks Ahead of 2025–26 Season

🔥 GAMECOCK HEART AND HOME COMMITMENT: South Carolina’s MiLaysia Fulwiley Withdraws from Transfer Portal, Strengthens Roster and Leadership with Bold Return to Gamecocks Ahead of 2025–26 Season

 

COLUMBIA, S.C. (June 30, 2025) — In a major boost for Dawn Staley’s program, standout guard MiLaysia Fulwiley has made a surprise U-turn in her college career—officially withdrawing her name from the NCAA transfer portal and reaffirming her commitment to the South Carolina Gamecocks, sources confirmed Wednesday. Her dramatic reversal comes after a challenging few months and underscores a renewed sense of purpose and belonging ahead of the 2025–26 season.

 

 

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🔄 The Reversal: From Departing to Devoted

 

Less than two months ago, Fulwiley shocked the Gamecock community by entering the transfer portal—joining nearly 30% of Division I women’s basketball players seeking new opportunities abroad . The 5’10″ guard from Columbia was South Carolina’s second-leading scorer in 2024–25, averaging 11.7 PPG, earning SEC Sixth Woman of the Year, leading in steals, and contributing 58 blocks .

 

However, Fulwiley announced today—via a post in a South Carolina fan community—that she has withdrawn from the portal and will return for her junior season. The declaration reads:

 

> “VERIFIED NEWS: MiLaysia Fulwiley Shockingly reversed her decision, withdraws from the transfer portal, and reaffirms her commitment to the Gamecocks WBB”

 

 

 

This U-turn protects South Carolina’s roster balance and leadership continuity.

 

 

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🌟 Why She Considered Leaving

 

Fulwiley’s decision to enter the portal in mid-April followed the arrival of five-star guard Ta’Niya Latson and the return of veteran Raven Johnson—moves that might have limited her playing time and role . Despite flash performances and elite athleticism, her court time remained inconsistent, prompting speculation she sought a starting role elsewhere .

 

 

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🎯 Why She’s Staying: Renewed Commitment

 

Fulwiley’s return isn’t just a roster win—it’s a leadership moment. By choosing loyalty over departure, she sets a tone for resilience and team-first mentality. Her presence back in the SEC powerhouse lineup solidifies depth in the backcourt and ensures continuity in system chemistry.

 

Speaking in a fan group post, she emphasized gratitude for her hometown and the support she’s received—and expressed renewed belief in the journey ahead together .

 

 

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🏀 Impacting the 2025–26 Gamecock Narrative

 

➤ Backcourt Stability & Depth

 

With Fulwiley staying, South Carolina retains a proven SEC scorer off the bench and a dynamic playmaker, offsetting Latson and Johnson’s addition.

 

➤ Cultural Signal

 

Her return speaks volumes. In a portal-driven era, Fulwiley’s decision shows a preference for environment over minutes—a powerful reminder of the importance of loyalty and program identity.

 

➤ Guard Leadership

 

As a hometown junior and SEC awardee, Fulwiley naturally takes on a mentor role for younger guards like Madina Okot. Her return sustains experience and composure in big-game settings.

 

 

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🗣️ Voices from Columbia

 

A local fan commented on the portal update:

 

> “VERIFIED NEWS… reaffirms her commitment” —a sentiment shared by thousands of relieved fans.

 

 

 

Inside Staley’s camp, coaches view this as a stability prize for a team rebuilding around a strong guard rotation.

 

 

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📆 What’s Ahead

 

Preseason role clarity: Fulwiley will likely feature as a sixth-man candidate—blending scoring, defense, and clutch play.

 

Team synergy: Backcourt chemistry with Latson and Johnson will be refined at summer practices.

 

Cultural imprint: Fulwiley’s presence strengthens Gamecock identity: hometown pride meets elite ambition.

 

 

 

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📝 Final Take: A Return with Purpose

 

MiLaysia Fulwiley’s withdrawal from the portal isn’t just good news—it’s a statement. She returns as a matured leader ready to elevate her play, embrace her hometown culture, and provide depth to a championship-ready roster.

 

Her shift reflects more than personal choice—it captures the evolving heart of South Carolina basketball: winning through unity, loyalty, and hometown pride.

 

Fulwiley’s homecoming could be the spark the Gamecocks need as they strive to return to SEC dominance and chase a third national title in four years.

 

 

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